I grew up in Birmingham where we used to spend many hours watching movies here. The first film that I saw as a 8 yr old was The Love Bug. A movie by Disney featuring Herbie the love bug. I’ve have seen countless movies here as well as seeing many musical performances from my favorite artists. Such a great venue. There are so many events held here during the year. So proud that you are choosing to highlight these type of historical places that are irreplaceable. I’m not sure if we will ever see anything like these beautiful and majestic buildings again. I encourage all of you if you ever have the opportunity to visit to come at a time when they are playing the organ because it is a once in a lifetime experience and one of the most impressive things about the theater. The organ rises from the underneath the stage, plays a few tunes and descends back down as it continues playing. Thank you again kind sir. Much love to all.
Thank you Leland Sklar! What an honor to have you showcase our Birmingham jem! When I was @ 10 in the early 60s, my friends and I could come here and watch movies on Saturdays for 6 bottle caps. Back then, it was like entering a magical place, more like a palace. Even now, I still get that magical feeling walking inside. It came within an eyelash of being razed, however UAB Ballet occupied it, and that stared a revitalization of this wonderful landmark. Thank you again for showing a better side of my home. Birmingham, my hometown, has many things I'm not proud of, but the Alabama Theater is one of many things in Birmingham I cherish
Hi! 😊 So enjoy seeing places most of us haven't been. Exquisite craftsmanship. Even squeeky doors! 😊 🙈🙃😱 Oh wow! Roof view!💜👩💜 Lol nice photo of The Man !!! Leland 🧙♂️ Hi Amy 💞
In my seat at the Alabama Theater with the show about to begin. Thanks Lee for spending a couple of minutes this afternoon fixing my copy of Everybody Loves Me for the library! Hope the shirt fits. Roll Tide!
The Alabama Theatre in Birmingham, Alabama, is a movie palace built by the Paramount-Publix Corporation in 1927. The grand opening was held on December 26, 1927. Construction of the concrete and steel building took only eight and a half months and cost approximately $1.5 million... With seats for about 2,500 people, the Alabama was one of the larger movie theatres built in Birmingham and is the only one of its size remaining from that era and the first public building in Alabama to have air conditioning. One of the things the Alabama was known for in its early days was its Mickey Mouse Club which was formed in 1933. Meetings were held every Saturday. Children would perform for each other, watch Mickey Mouse cartoons, and participate in other activities. The Club also sponsored food and toy drives for the underprivileged. By 1935, the Club had over 7000 members, making it the biggest Mickey Mouse Club in the world. Membership eventually peaked at over 18,000 before the Club closed almost ten years after it was formed. Another regular event at the Alabama was the Miss Alabama Pageant. The Alabama became host to the Miss Alabama Pageant from 1938 through 1966. In 1993, the Alabama Theater was designated the official state historic theatre of Alabama in recognition of its place in Alabama history, culture and society. Originally constructed to show silent films, the Alabama features an ornate Mighty Wurlitzer organ. Strangely enough, the Crawford Special- Publix One -Mighty Wurlitzer organ was the reason the building was salvaged. The Alabama Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society approached the property owners who were planning a parking lot where the Alabama stood and asked them if they could buy this iconic instrument, one of only 25 organs of its type ever built. The realtor was smart enough to recognize the Wurlitzer’s value and refused to sell it separately. Undeterred, the group continued to find support and ultimately raised enough funds to purchase not just the organ but the entire facility. In 1987, the non-profit organization, Birmingham Landmarks, Inc, was formed to purchase the building, saving the Mighty Wurlitzer.
In 1998, the Alabama underwent a complete restoration. Gold leaf and other paint was cleaned or replaced, seats were replaced or recovered, and some carpet and drapes were replaced. A handful of very dedicated volunteers led by Cecil Whitmire and his wife, Linda, resurrected the Alabama and began operating it to pay the $680,000 mortgage the Birmingham Landmarks had agreed to take on. Today, in addition to screening classic films, the Alabama Theatre hosts the Alabama Symphony, Alabama Ballet, theatrical productions of all kinds. Artists such as BB King, Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, Garrison Keillor, Kings of Leon, Greg Allman, Allison Krauss, Black Crowes, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Jamie Johnson, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Nickel Creek, Norah Jones, Wilco, Willie Nelson, and Wynton Marsalis to name only a few have performed at the Alabama Theatre. In 2009 The Hill Event Center, adjacent to the theatre, was opened to offer a ballroom and reception area for weddings, and other social and business events held at the theatre complex. Birmingham Landmarks and local government and civic leaders are currently developing plans and visions for a theatre district revitalization initiative along Birmingham’s Third Avenue North to include the Alabama, The Lyric (a historic vaudeville theatre), the Red Mountain Theatre, the Carver Theatre and McWane Center’s IMAX Theatre.
A late 20th century rescue seems to be a common thread for these great old theaters. Thank goodness for local pride, sense of history, and generosity. Thanks Mark!
I keep thinking…if those walls could talk….I’m trying to envision a show from, say, 1935…..all the people….how they would be dressed…..and also the obvious elephant in the room and how it was handled. An absolutely gorgeous old building……lovingly cared for. One of the most beautiful we’ve yet seen, I think. And certainly a source of great civic pride. Thank you for the tour, Lee!
Shout out to Wylam and Ensley (South Birmingham). I get to see Señor Sklar tomorrow in New Orleans on a stage (Orpheum) that, while not the biggest in the world, at least provides a little elbow room (unlike the postage-stamp sized riser the great McCabe's guitar shop has everyone - like Steve Postell & Co. - play on). Glad for the chance to catch Lyle and the big band before the tour is over. Looking forward to a great show!
Ornate is weak sauce, let's go for extravagantly ornate. But not the basement. I do wish we could have seen the front after nightfall. Thanks, you are incredibly generous, ❤️👍❤️👍
That’s a beautiful theater I grew up near Birmingham and went there when I was a kid my grandmother took me to see song of the South a Walt Disney movie. Arnold Schwarzenegger also starred in a movie filmed on the same block call stay hungry. Have fun in Birmingham its truly a Beautiful place.
Alabama just like i pictured it stupendous. Ornate , monumental, they don't make em like they used to..yiu can get lost in here.I bet the acoustics sound great in here.thank you for posting this greatly appreciated Leland Sklar Stay safe , be safe 🙏 peace 🙏 ☮️ ☮️ .
Today’s venue is certainly a beautiful old Theatre designed from a variety of influences and this comprehensive tour allows us to see the best and the worst of this grand old building.
What a beautiful place. Stunning ceiling above the seats. Been there once a few years back. We saw Kacey Musgraves sold out. She was really good. Band was smokin. Come back to Memphis. Cant wait til next vid.
I liked how you were drawn like a magnet to that Do Not Enter Door on to the roof. That low parapet gave me the willies. I'm glad you didn't go any closer. Great tour, beautiful building.
I saw Stevie ray Vaughn at the Alabama Theater in the early 1980s. Went around back and walked right into him after the show. Nicest fellow even though drenched in sweat took time to say thanks for coming out. It’s a great venue. Just a beautiful place.
Beside the most obvious impression of these exquisite theaters built in the late 20’s to early 50’s with such craftsmanship, had me wondering what we have built or left as our legacy to be appreciated. I could only think of large shopping malls, sport stadiums, tall and taller buildings two of which were icons destroyed by terrorism in 2001. The only other structure that could possibly match the many theaters built in many different cities since that time is Disneyland built in 1955 which was a singular construct in a lone location. All this wondering evaporated as Leland opened the door to the roof and the view to the older buildings dwarfed by the newer ones, and the machinery to keep ventilation, heating, and cooling operational followed by a quick retreat away from 80F and high humidity. But then to my favorite part an exploration of the less than hi lighted views not normally seen. And finally to the stage and where the day’s work will be focused into a performance.
Interesting question. There's one in Balboa, Spain. An art museum if I recall. Opera house in Australia? Sydney, I think. Lee liked the art museum in Milwaukee, I've been there and it's a spectacular fit for the lakeshore. All buildings to house art, makes sense.
Sadly, in cities in North America, heritage homes and buildings get demolished, and are replaced with other structures. Not many are preserved. I like photographing them. Cheers! ✌️
@@dwaynewladyka577 I was a photojournalist and photographer in the 60’s and would have used a 4x5 view camera for doing that kind of work. What are you using. It is an excellent project to be doing. 👍
What an incredibly, astonishingly beautiful monument to theatre and the performing arts! How could anybody, except perhaps greedy, soulless property developers, even think about demolishing such a magnificent example? As usual Lee, your tour brings something of great value to those of us who aren't in a position to see first hand. Thank you.
HI Lee, you heard right. Gerry Moss did pass away at 89 within the last couple of days. He and Herb had a fabulous studio with some outstanding artists. Glad he lived a long and happy life. Enjoy what remains of the tour Lee. B. Love
Lee we were there as guests of Charlie and our good friend Verna that he mentioned during the concert. I also really enjoyed your walk around of the Alabama that in spite of being a professional photographer I've been all over the Lyric but have not been backstage there. As a 65 year old man I've slowed down a step and sometimes forget proper nouns but you look and act like a 40 year old! Part of my photography chops were learned in the building Rick Beato's studio is in. Love your work, man!@@lelandsklar6363
Going back to Canada from a few months spent in Mexico, I made a stop over to visit my brother in Birmingham. That was in mid 80's. I returned again in 2008, but sadly it was to go to his funeral. Gilles "Bad News" Bilodeau was his name when he played hockey for the Birmingham Bulls in the WHA. He was well known in the city during that time. Particularity of Birmingham...or Alabama state at that time...all customers in restaurants needed to show id to order alchool drinks. Even if you were 77 years old. Is it still the same now? I wonder.
I love seeing all of these beautiful, historic theaters yet can't help but remember who these were built for. I won't soapbox and be Debbie Downer, but it would be worthwhile to read what the Lyric across the street did about the subject then and now. Hope the show was great, keep it up and thanks once again for allowing us to vicariously hit the road with y'all across North America.
The Alabama and its historic organ were added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage on February 15, 1977 and to the National Register of Historic Places on November 13, 1979. The theater has been surveyed by the Historic American Buildings Survey on several occasions, most recently in 1996. It was designated as the state's historic theater in 1993.
Construction plans for the Alabama Theatre were announced in 1926, but groundbreaking was delayed until April 1, 1927. The grand opening was held as originally scheduled on December 26, 1927. Construction of the concrete-and-steel building cost approximately $1.5 million.
In 1998, the Alabama Theatre underwent a complete restoration in which gold leaf and paint were cleaned or replaced, seats were replaced or recovered and some carpeting and drapes were replaced. The renovation coincided with the conversion of the 1935 Loveman's building into the McWane Science Center. Birmingham Landmarks continues to own the theater and has also purchased the Lyric Theatre, a 1914 vaudeville theater located across the street from the Alabama.[5] The Alabama hosts approximately 250 events each year, attracting more than 400,000 people to a variety of performances including Broadway-type theatre, ballet, opera, concerts and film.[6]
When the Alabama Theatre was built in 1927, films were silent and required musical accompaniment, typically provided by an orchestra or theater pipe organ. The Alabama's organ is a Crawford Special-Publix One Mighty Wurlitzer. Only 17 products of this model were built, and the Alabama's organ, nicknamed Big Bertha, is one of only three still installed at their original sites. The Alabama's organ is a four-manual keyboard organ. It was originally installed with 20 ranks (sets of pipes) but has been expanded to 32. It also features numerous percussion instruments and sound effects to accompany silent films.
Have some necco wafers. They’re pricey now. My favorite is the chocolate one. Second old candy I really loved was fruit imperials. Can’t find them anywhere ❤
😯😯. Upstairs, downstairs, eh? Front stairs back stairs? As for the upstairs, front stairs, Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow. Our old home town movie theater sure never looked like that.
I love these venue walkaround videos. I’ve watched the Ryman yesterday and I’ve seen the Orpheus I’m New Orleans and the Alabama Theater ones today. I was at the Alabama Theater in 2007 to see Lucinda Williams. She was great, the audience, not so much (talkers and phone users the entire time…why? Just stay home or go to a bar. If you’re ever in my town, Chattanooga, TN, and you’re playing at the Tivoli Theater, be sure to give it a good walk-through/tour. It looks like this one in a lot of ways, lots of stairways, nooks and crannies, backstage stairs going down a few levels, etc. as a youth, and part of an annual Christmas musical show, I had the opportunity to go exploring around downstairs below the stage and learn the layout of the joint ofvthe course of a couple of weeks while having on-site rehearsals. I think you’d love it, 3-4 decades later! I’m a big fan of your channel and enjoy the videos you post! What a cool, interesting and blessed life you lead. 😊
Birmingham is a gorgeous city. I’ve traveled there for work at UAB a number of times and the many remembrances of the past and gardens etc are lovely. I wish some of these states - AL, TN, MO, TX, FL weren’t doing so many really egregious things because they are filled with beauty and history … but we must be able to tell and speak that history and teach it to our children.
It is a beautiful place now that they have remodeled the Lyric Theater, the 2 most beautiful theaters in the state are across the street from each other. I went to the Alabama Theater to see Dave Chappell and the Rickey Smiley Morning Show during the Magic City Classic weekend. It's really something to add to your bucket list. 👍🏾
How in hell did you fail to show the projection room? I was a projectionist there from 1999 to about 2004. It was an interesting room, with a lot of original equipment in it; with an attached store room and access to the ceiling above the balcony. The room was 5 floors above the lobby. I knew Cecil Whitmire and many of the employees and volunteers...
Please never forget the house organist (?)...Cecil Whitmire...I'm writing this on the fly and anyone who cares to give more info on the beautiful man please do so, thanks....
Hi Lee , another great venue that I have not been to. I have to ask as a fellow old musician, weren’t you about 12 when that theater was built in 1927. Please this is not meant to be mean. Just my sense of humor.
Is there a set list or does Lyle call the tunes each night? Would be great to see a snippet of a song during the show from your angle, wishful l thinking I know. Another great vid thanks🖕
Sign: Photo Session, Do Not Enter Leland: opens door and enters Early lesson in politics: seek forgiveness, not permission. Warning: this can be a very bad idea.
I grew up in Birmingham where we used to spend many hours watching movies here. The first film that I saw as a 8 yr old was The Love Bug. A movie by Disney featuring Herbie the love bug. I’ve have seen countless movies here as well as seeing many musical performances from my favorite artists. Such a great venue. There are so many events held here during the year. So proud that you are choosing to highlight these type of historical places that are irreplaceable. I’m not sure if we will ever see anything like these beautiful and majestic buildings again. I encourage all of you if you ever have the opportunity to visit to come at a time when they are playing the organ because it is a once in a lifetime experience and one of the most impressive things about the theater. The organ rises from the underneath the stage, plays a few tunes and descends back down as it continues playing. Thank you again kind sir. Much love to all.
Thank you Leland Sklar!
What an honor to have you showcase our Birmingham jem!
When I was @ 10 in the early 60s, my friends and I could come here and watch movies on Saturdays for 6 bottle caps.
Back then, it was like entering a magical place, more like a palace.
Even now, I still get that magical feeling walking inside.
It came within an eyelash of being razed, however UAB Ballet occupied it, and that stared a revitalization of this wonderful landmark.
Thank you again for showing a better side of my home.
Birmingham, my hometown, has many things I'm not proud of, but the Alabama Theater is one of many things in Birmingham I cherish
Hi! 😊 So enjoy seeing places most of us haven't been.
Exquisite craftsmanship. Even squeeky doors! 😊 🙈🙃😱
Oh wow! Roof view!💜👩💜 Lol nice photo of The Man !!! Leland 🧙♂️ Hi Amy 💞
Birmingham is my hometown. Thank you for showcasing The Alabama Theater... A beautiful landmark that we are certainly proud of!
GREAT interview with Rick Beato, Lee.
In my seat at the Alabama Theater with the show about to begin. Thanks Lee for spending a couple of minutes this afternoon fixing my copy of Everybody Loves Me for the library! Hope the shirt fits. Roll Tide!
You are in for a great night. Enjoy!
Saw the picture of you two on FB! 👍👍👍
Just a beautiful building. So grateful to you Leland for showing us these remaining architectural treasures...
The Alabama Theatre in Birmingham, Alabama, is a movie palace built by the Paramount-Publix Corporation in 1927. The grand opening was held on December 26, 1927. Construction of the concrete and steel building took only eight and a half months and cost approximately $1.5 million...
With seats for about 2,500 people, the Alabama was one of the larger movie theatres built in Birmingham and is the only one of its size remaining from that era and the first public building in Alabama to have air conditioning. One of the things the Alabama was known for in its early days was its Mickey Mouse Club which was formed in 1933. Meetings were held every Saturday. Children would perform for each other, watch Mickey Mouse cartoons, and participate in other activities. The Club also sponsored food and toy drives for the underprivileged. By 1935, the Club had over 7000 members, making it the biggest Mickey Mouse Club in the world. Membership eventually peaked at over 18,000 before the Club closed almost ten years after it was formed. Another regular event at the Alabama was the Miss Alabama Pageant. The Alabama became host to the Miss Alabama Pageant from 1938 through 1966. In 1993, the Alabama Theater was designated the official state historic theatre of Alabama in recognition of its place in Alabama history, culture and society.
Originally constructed to show silent films, the Alabama features an ornate Mighty Wurlitzer organ. Strangely enough, the Crawford Special- Publix One -Mighty Wurlitzer organ was the reason the building was salvaged. The Alabama Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society approached the property owners who were planning a parking lot where the Alabama stood and asked them if they could buy this iconic instrument, one of only 25 organs of its type ever built. The realtor was smart enough to recognize the Wurlitzer’s value and refused to sell it separately. Undeterred, the group continued to find support and ultimately raised enough funds to purchase not just the organ but the entire facility. In 1987, the non-profit organization, Birmingham Landmarks, Inc, was formed to purchase the building, saving the Mighty Wurlitzer.
In 1998, the Alabama underwent a complete restoration. Gold leaf and other paint was cleaned or replaced, seats were replaced or recovered, and some carpet and drapes were replaced. A handful of very dedicated volunteers led by Cecil Whitmire and his wife, Linda, resurrected the Alabama and began operating it to pay the $680,000 mortgage the Birmingham Landmarks had agreed to take on.
Today, in addition to screening classic films, the Alabama Theatre hosts the Alabama Symphony, Alabama Ballet, theatrical productions of all kinds. Artists such as BB King, Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, Garrison Keillor, Kings of Leon, Greg Allman, Allison Krauss, Black Crowes, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Jamie Johnson, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Nickel Creek, Norah Jones, Wilco, Willie Nelson, and Wynton Marsalis to name only a few have performed at the Alabama Theatre. In 2009 The Hill Event Center, adjacent to the theatre, was opened to offer a ballroom and reception area for weddings, and other social and business events held at the theatre complex.
Birmingham Landmarks and local government and civic leaders are currently developing plans and visions for a theatre district revitalization initiative along Birmingham’s Third Avenue North to include the Alabama, The Lyric (a historic vaudeville theatre), the Red Mountain Theatre, the Carver Theatre and McWane Center’s IMAX Theatre.
A late 20th century rescue seems to be a common thread for these great old theaters. Thank goodness for local pride, sense of history, and generosity. Thanks Mark!
@@Mark_Brooks
👍👍 Again good work ☮
@@Mark_BrooksTerrific, Mark, Thank You!
You're welcome everybody.
I keep thinking…if those walls could talk….I’m trying to envision a show from, say, 1935…..all the people….how they would be dressed…..and also the obvious elephant in the room and how it was handled. An absolutely gorgeous old building……lovingly cared for. One of the most beautiful we’ve yet seen, I think. And certainly a source of great civic pride. Thank you for the tour, Lee!
It’s a miracle this amazing theater was saved from being destroyed!!!!! It is truly an amazing theater. Thanks for sharing Lee!!!!!
Another fabulous old palace of entertainment. Like you Lee I love those light fittings. They are a show in themselves.
My god what a theater. All of those cool light fixtures and painting and millwork and tile work and that view from the balcony. WOW!
Another beautiful building!
Shout out to Wylam and Ensley (South Birmingham). I get to see Señor Sklar tomorrow in New Orleans on a stage (Orpheum) that, while not the biggest in the world, at least provides a little elbow room (unlike the postage-stamp sized riser the great McCabe's guitar shop has everyone - like Steve Postell & Co. - play on). Glad for the chance to catch Lyle and the big band before the tour is over. Looking forward to a great show!
I am so glad they saved these theaters!!!!
Beautiful building. Thanks for sharing with us
Those Fixtures scream that ERA!!!!! BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!
Ornate is weak sauce, let's go for extravagantly ornate. But not the basement. I do wish we could have seen the front after nightfall. Thanks, you are incredibly generous, ❤️👍❤️👍
What a gem! Gorgeous art deco specimen.
That’s a beautiful theater I grew up near Birmingham and went there when I was a kid my grandmother took me to see song of the South a Walt Disney movie. Arnold Schwarzenegger also starred in a movie filmed on the same block call stay hungry. Have fun in Birmingham its truly a Beautiful place.
It was so nice to have you all! Thank you for sharing this!!
The padlock:
No really, you don't want to come in here.
Alabama just like i pictured it stupendous. Ornate , monumental, they don't make em like they used to..yiu can get lost in here.I bet the acoustics sound great in here.thank you for posting this greatly appreciated Leland Sklar Stay safe , be safe 🙏 peace 🙏 ☮️ ☮️ .
Wow! What an interesting and beautiful building!
Hi Leland, so great you got to come here. Keep Rockin' the passion! 👍🥁👍DC
Thank you for another magical mystery tour!
Today’s venue is certainly a beautiful old Theatre designed from a variety of influences and this comprehensive tour allows us to see the best and the worst of this grand old building.
Love these theater tours! Beato interview was good too!
What a great old building.
Appreciate the tour, thanks Lee.
What a beautiful place. Stunning ceiling above the seats. Been there once a few years back.
We saw Kacey Musgraves sold out.
She was really good. Band was smokin.
Come back to Memphis. Cant wait til next vid.
A simply stunning theatre, plus Lee's eye for architectural, decor and fittings detail = a fantastic combination!! Thank you :-)
One of the venues I had the privilege to visit myself. It was last year during the World Games in Birmingham, AL. Historical & beautiful!
I liked how you were drawn like a magnet to that Do Not Enter Door on to the roof. That low parapet gave me the willies. I'm glad you didn't go any closer. Great tour, beautiful building.
Old movie palaces are my favorite!
It is Beautiful 1927 Wow!
Just imagine back then the Opening day of the Theater 🎭 😮❤
I bet it was Amazing!
Thank you , Leland ✌ 🎉
I saw Stevie ray Vaughn at the Alabama Theater in the early 1980s. Went around back and walked right into him after the show. Nicest fellow even though drenched in sweat took time to say thanks for coming out. It’s a great venue. Just a beautiful place.
Thanks for a great show last night, Lee! Glad you like our theater!
Beside the most obvious impression of these exquisite theaters built in the late 20’s to early 50’s with such craftsmanship, had me wondering what we have built or left as our legacy to be appreciated.
I could only think of large shopping malls, sport stadiums, tall and taller buildings two of which were icons destroyed by terrorism in 2001.
The only other structure that could possibly match the many theaters built in many different cities since that time is Disneyland built in 1955 which was a singular construct in a lone location.
All this wondering evaporated as Leland opened the door to the roof and the view to the older buildings dwarfed by the newer ones, and the machinery to keep ventilation, heating, and cooling operational followed by a quick retreat away from 80F and high humidity.
But then to my favorite part an exploration of the less than hi lighted views not normally seen. And finally to the stage and where the day’s work will be focused into a performance.
Interesting question. There's one in Balboa, Spain. An art museum if I recall. Opera house in Australia? Sydney, I think. Lee liked the art museum in Milwaukee, I've been there and it's a spectacular fit for the lakeshore. All buildings to house art, makes sense.
@@slipperynoodle20
👍
Sadly, in cities in North America, heritage homes and buildings get demolished, and are replaced with other structures. Not many are preserved. I like photographing them. Cheers! ✌️
@@dwaynewladyka577
I was a photojournalist and photographer in the 60’s and would have used a 4x5 view camera for doing that kind of work. What are you using. It is an excellent project to be doing. 👍
@@artemisXsidecross I used different cameras that I have, but I've been using my smartphone camera for recent ones.
Beautiful old theater!
What an incredibly, astonishingly beautiful monument to theatre and the performing arts!
How could anybody, except perhaps greedy, soulless property developers, even think about demolishing such a magnificent example?
As usual Lee, your tour brings something of great value to those of us who aren't in a position to see first hand.
Thank you.
HI Lee, you heard right. Gerry Moss did pass away at 89 within the last couple of days. He and Herb had a fabulous studio with some outstanding artists. Glad he lived a long and happy life. Enjoy what remains of the tour Lee. B. Love
Alabama. I've never been in that part of the country. Thanks for the video and info, Leland
Sue, 😃
Hi Sue!
@@splashesin8 Hi Audrey!
☮
Had the privilege of see you live for the first time, last night from the 5th row! Loved the show especially the beautiful bass so much.
Thanks so much!
Lee we were there as guests of Charlie and our good friend Verna that he mentioned during the concert. I also really enjoyed your walk around of the Alabama that in spite of being a professional photographer I've been all over the Lyric but have not been backstage there. As a 65 year old man I've slowed down a step and sometimes forget proper nouns but you look and act like a 40 year old! Part of my photography chops were learned in the building Rick Beato's studio is in. Love your work, man!@@lelandsklar6363
Reminds me of the Balboa Theater in San Diego.
Thanks Leland. We appreciate you so much.
Going back to Canada from a few months spent in Mexico, I made a stop over to visit my brother in Birmingham. That was in mid 80's. I returned again in 2008, but sadly it was to go to his funeral. Gilles "Bad News" Bilodeau was his name when he played hockey for the Birmingham Bulls in the WHA. He was well known in the city during that time.
Particularity of Birmingham...or Alabama state at that time...all customers in restaurants needed to show id to order alchool drinks. Even if you were 77 years old. Is it still the same now? I wonder.
Sir Lee,
Good evening and another fantastic masterpiece; just love the theater. Have a great show tonight and safe travels south!
I love seeing all of these beautiful, historic theaters yet can't help but remember who these were built for. I won't soapbox and be Debbie Downer, but it would be worthwhile to read what the Lyric across the street did about the subject then and now.
Hope the show was great, keep it up and thanks once again for allowing us to vicariously hit the road with y'all across North America.
The Alabama and its historic organ were added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage on February 15, 1977 and to the National Register of Historic Places on November 13, 1979. The theater has been surveyed by the Historic American Buildings Survey on several occasions, most recently in 1996. It was designated as the state's historic theater in 1993.
Construction plans for the Alabama Theatre were announced in 1926, but groundbreaking was delayed until April 1, 1927. The grand opening was held as originally scheduled on December 26, 1927. Construction of the concrete-and-steel building cost approximately $1.5 million.
In 1998, the Alabama Theatre underwent a complete restoration in which gold leaf and paint were cleaned or replaced, seats were replaced or recovered and some carpeting and drapes were replaced. The renovation coincided with the conversion of the 1935 Loveman's building into the McWane Science Center.
Birmingham Landmarks continues to own the theater and has also purchased the Lyric Theatre, a 1914 vaudeville theater located across the street from the Alabama.[5] The Alabama hosts approximately 250 events each year, attracting more than 400,000 people to a variety of performances including Broadway-type theatre, ballet, opera, concerts and film.[6]
When the Alabama Theatre was built in 1927, films were silent and required musical accompaniment, typically provided by an orchestra or theater pipe organ. The Alabama's organ is a Crawford Special-Publix One Mighty Wurlitzer. Only 17 products of this model were built, and the Alabama's organ, nicknamed Big Bertha, is one of only three still installed at their original sites.
The Alabama's organ is a four-manual keyboard organ. It was originally installed with 20 ranks (sets of pipes) but has been expanded to 32. It also features numerous percussion instruments and sound effects to accompany silent films.
@@Mark_Brooks
👍👍👍
Great work Mark, I look forward to the data you find and post.
@@artemisXsidecross Hi Artemis!
Beautiful craftsmanship so cool.
Leland: Will you have time to do an up close and personal interview with Russ and hit drum kikt ?
Places like that will never be built again. It is fabulous...done by anonymous craftmen.
You get to play at the most coolest theaters.❤✌️🙏
You found Brad a Sax Room!!!!
Oh my god, I'm just seeing this video 11 months late, glad you visited the Alabama. I had no idea you were here.
He Did it AGAIN!!!!!! The roof!!!!!! Pheewwww.....made it back in!!!!
I like going to the roof too👍
🙃🙈
My favorite place
@@KittyCarlile-490Up on the Roof... The Drifters or JT. James Taylor 💖 🎶
@@m1nn1s oh yeah. Good song. Thanks
My gawd man, blessing us with these amazing theatres and venues, taking us with you every night, for those about to rock I salute you.
I appreciate you, thank you for making content.
I seen a few shows there including SRV
Fantastic, SRV Legend 💐💖💐😇🎶🎸🎤🎹💖
Back when studios actually built venues so people would have a place to watch their pictures
Actually, they weren't that public spirited. They wanted a monopoly on showing their films. The studios were eventually forced to see their theatres.
Have some necco wafers. They’re pricey now. My favorite is the chocolate one.
Second old candy I really loved was fruit imperials. Can’t find them anywhere ❤
❤ Its,.... Really Beautiful In there.
Thank you Lee ✌🏻
Beautiful. Have you had the chance to play The Palace Theatre in Louisville? Also, a treasure.😊
Have played there.
😯😯. Upstairs, downstairs, eh?
Front stairs back stairs?
As for the upstairs, front stairs, Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow.
Our old home town movie theater sure never looked like that.
1927 was a banner years for films as they shifted to synchronized sound. Also, the first silent pairing of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy.
Exquisite. A rare gem.
Sounded pretty, and then like a maze. The graze sounds good! 😊
☮
Morning Artemis, 😊
So pretty - stunning venue, Lee. Loved the Beato interview too - watched it twice.
That was fun. Hennepin 7:28 Trust has several beauties. Avalon in Chicago I hope is still being renovated. Antiquitech.
Leland I just discovered Head over Heels from the Dallas show a few months back. "Because I'M" vocal was awesome my friend! d
I as a child would go to this theater every Saturday and watch the latest movies. Admission was 6 Pepsi bottle caps and .25 cents !
Well now I’m sad, I live in Birmingham and had no idea you were here! Hope you had a great time!
A box of Tide POWDER.......long time no see!!!!
This theater compares with the 1887 in Galveston that Leland and Lyle have played recently.💖🎶🎸🎤🎹🥁🎺
I love these venue walkaround videos. I’ve watched the Ryman yesterday and I’ve seen the Orpheus
I’m New Orleans and the Alabama Theater ones today. I was at the Alabama Theater in 2007 to see Lucinda Williams. She was great, the audience, not so much (talkers and phone users the entire time…why? Just stay home or go to a bar. If you’re ever in my town, Chattanooga, TN, and you’re playing at the Tivoli Theater, be sure to give it a good walk-through/tour. It looks like this one in a lot of ways, lots of stairways, nooks and crannies, backstage stairs going down a few levels, etc. as a youth, and part of an annual Christmas musical show, I had the opportunity to go exploring around downstairs below the stage and learn the layout of the joint ofvthe course of a couple of weeks while having on-site rehearsals. I think you’d love it, 3-4 decades later! I’m a big fan of your channel and enjoy the videos you post! What a cool, interesting and blessed life you lead. 😊
Hope you’re staying well. After my flight home. I got something. Chills fever. Glad I’m five times vaccinated. COVID won’t go away
This is a very beavenue. Cheers, Leland! ✌️
Looking forward to seeing you in New Orleans!
Birmingham is a gorgeous city. I’ve traveled there for work at UAB a number of times and the many remembrances of the past and gardens etc are lovely. I wish some of these states - AL, TN, MO, TX, FL weren’t doing so many really egregious things because they are filled with beauty and history … but we must be able to tell and speak that history and teach it to our children.
I tend to think of the indigenous people who were in that part of North America before Columbus came; I would to teach that to the young. ☮
Beautiful
Have fun
Leland! Get out of the Ladies Room! 🤨
The Birmingham Vulcan makes an appearance in a quirky John Prine song: The Lonesome Friends of Science.
Who doesn't have crushed red velvet in their bathroom?
😂, me.
Ikr?
I couldn't afford it, so I went with the orange shag carpet instead.
The Old South resides in the basement.
It is a beautiful place now that they have remodeled the Lyric Theater, the 2 most beautiful theaters in the state are across the street from each other. I went to the Alabama Theater to see Dave Chappell and the Rickey Smiley Morning Show during the Magic City Classic weekend. It's really something to add to your bucket list. 👍🏾
Shout out to my almamater Jackson Olin and Bush Hills off Arkadelphia where I grew up.
How in hell did you fail to show the projection room? I was a projectionist there from 1999 to about 2004. It was an interesting room, with a lot of original equipment in it; with an attached store room and access to the ceiling above the balcony. The room was 5 floors above the lobby. I knew Cecil Whitmire and many of the employees and volunteers...
Danny Kortchmar Live on Game Changers With Vicki Abelson is now available on UA-cam
ua-cam.com/video/FNzrcDN1dT0/v-deo.html
Love Jenny Slick. Now that's an Alabama girl! 😊
Breathtaking......
wow Leyland wow wow wow
Please never forget the house organist (?)...Cecil Whitmire...I'm writing this on the fly and anyone who cares to give more info on the beautiful man please do so, thanks....
A beautiful theater but a little creepy.
Hi Lee , another great venue that I have not been to. I have to ask as a fellow old musician, weren’t you about 12 when that theater was built in 1927.
Please this is not meant to be mean. Just my sense of humor.
MORRISSEY is coming!!!❤
Wow! Simply Wow!
Is there a set list or does Lyle call the tunes each night? Would be great to see a snippet of a song during the show from your angle, wishful l thinking I know. Another great vid thanks🖕
We get a set list about 10
Minutes before every show.
Hellooo Cleveland!
Sign: Photo Session, Do Not Enter
Leland: opens door and enters
Early lesson in politics: seek forgiveness, not permission.
Warning: this can be a very bad idea.
When the entire venue is almost stealing the show by itself.....😮....